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Glanbia Price Decisions Welcomed

IRELAND – An industry spokesman has welcomed dairy group Glanbia’s decision to remove the growth levy on post quota production growth.

Irish Farmers Association Chairman Sean O’Leary said a 2 cent per litre charge on extra milk from 2015 would be unnecessary, given that milk would be heading for higher value markets.

Speaking last week, he explained all producers would benefit from higher values, whether or not they expanded.

However, he insisted there milk prices clarity must not be compromised.

“IFA is in principle supportive of fair, negotiated and well-structured financial contributions from farmer shareholders to the development of their co-ops. However, I see this move as a positive one, which should help reduce the cost of expansion for Glanbia producers.”

Mr O’Leary also approved of Glanbia's €5m volatility fund, to be paid out in its entirety within 2 years.

“I intend to meet Glanbia very soon to discuss the details and mechanisms of this proposed scheme. To gain farmers’ confidence, it needs to be totally transparent, and cannot be allowed to muddy the waters on milk prices. GIIL must at all times return the best possible price from the market place,” he concluded.